Dr. Tammi McMillan is a distinguished leader in the field of education, currently serving as the Director of The Power of One Teacher Diversification program at Carlow University in Pittsburgh, PA. With a mission to diversify the early childhood and educator workforce, Dr. McMillan is dedicated to breaking down barriers that prevent educators of color from obtaining their credentials or teaching degrees.

A proud alumna of Cheyney University, the nation’s first Historically Black College and University (HBCU), and a graduate of Carnegie Mellon’s Tepper School of Business Executive Leadership Institute (TALI), Dr. McMillan brings over two decades of expertise in educational leadership and early childhood education to her role.

Throughout her career, Dr. McMillan has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to early childhood education, working with diverse populations and addressing the unique needs of young learners. Her approach aligns seamlessly with Carlow University’s mission to cultivate reflective, action-oriented scholar-practitioners who are capable of creating and thriving in high-performance learning environments while respecting the dignity and diversity of all students.

Dr. McMillan’s scholarly work includes extensive research on An Overview of the African American Male Teacher and His Relevance Today, highlighting the critical role African American male educators play in shaping the educational landscape. Her work is grounded in Critical Theory, Culturally Relevant Pedagogy, and Urban Education. She has designed and implemented numerous professional development modules for educators and students. In her previous role as Director of Educational Services at Hosanna House Inc., Dr. McMillan led transformational strategies impacting over 400 students and 50 staff members.

A native of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, Dr. McMillan holds a Master’s degree from Duquesne University and a Doctorate from Point Park University. She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.. She has made significant contributions to the field through her published works, including her children’s book, Sunni Rae’s World: What Are Your Superpowers?, and presentations at local and national conferences.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. McMillan is a mother of three sons and a strong advocate for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Her leadership has been recognized with more than a dozen awards, underscoring her profound impact on the education field. Dr. McMillan’s guiding philosophy is inspired by the quote from John Dewey: “If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday’s, we rob them of tomorrow.” As a passionate advocate for social justice and educational equality, she firmly believes that every child deserves access to quality education and the opportunity to thrive.

Dr. McMillan is deeply devoted to diversifying the educator workforce and ensuring equitable access to education. Her commitment to breaking down systemic barriers that impede educators of color reflects her broader dedication to social justice and education reform. She has a strong focus on early childhood education, advocating for developmentally appropriate instruction that reflects the diverse backgrounds of the students served.

Education

• Executive Leadership Certification – Tepper School of Business, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA (2022)
• EdD – Educational Leadership, Point Park University, Pittsburgh, PA (2019)
• MA – Leadership and Liberal Arts, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA (2003) 
• BA – Elementary Education, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, Cheyney, PA (1991)

Professional Memberships

• Education of the Young Child, Pittsburgh Association
• Education of the Young Child, National Association
• Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated
• Member of Cheyney University Pittsburgh and National Alumni Association
• Shady Lane School Vice Chairman of the Board
• Sojourner House Board of Directors

Research

• Diversifying the educator workforce – specifically focusing on the role of African American male educators and their influence on the broader educational landscape. This research aligns with Dr. Tammi McMillan’s dedication to breaking down barriers for educators of color and ensuring that the workforce reflects the diverse populations it serves.
• Research Advisory Committee (RAC) and our Research Practice Learning Community (RPL) for the Allegheny County Black Teacher Study

Publications

• Building a Positive School Culture (October 2023)
• Becoming Culturally AWARE: Understanding Oppression; Breaking Down the Terms (October 2022)
• An Overview of the African American Male Teacher and His Relevance Today, ProQuest (May 2019)

Awards & Recognition

• Black Excellence in Education Award (2024)
• OWN Women Leadership Award (2023)
• Pittsburgh Tribune Top 20 Educators in Pittsburgh Award (2022)
• Pittsburgh Ladies who Lead Award (2022)
• Pittsburgh Courier Woman of Excellence Award (2021)
• 2020 Pennsylvania Association for the Education of the Young Child Voice Award (2020)
• Onyx Women’s Network Leadership Award
• Professional Women’s Network Leadership Award